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Charter Bus Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Keolis America

City Bus Driver

CA

$22.67/hr

Must have a valid driver's license Non CDL Holders (Class C): Must be able to obtain a CA CDL Class B with Passenger Endorsement & Air Brakes permit within 14 calendar days from start date Must be ...

MCS Career Group

Be Seen First

School Bus Driver up to $25.56 hourly

Pomona, CA · On-site

$16.50 - $25.56/hr

Office locations in Pomona. 20-25 hours part time only School Service is currently hiring School Bus Drivers to serve local school districts in transporting their special needs children to & from ...

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All JobsCharter Bus Driver JobsCharter Bus Driver Jobs in Riverside, CA

Charter Bus Driver information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$15

$25

$40

How much do charter bus driver jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for charter bus driver in Riverside, CA is $25.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Charter Bus Driver Do?

A Charter Bus Driver provides driving services for groups of people taking planned trips for events like weekend getaways or guided tours. These professionals use their skills, special commercial driver’s license, any necessary certifications, experience, and commitment to provide safe, secure, and comfortable transportation to a planned destination. Sometimes known as Motor Coach Drivers, Charter Bus Drivers also ensure that they stay on schedule, short of any unforeseen occurrence such as an auto accident, which they know how to handle quickly, effectively, and efficiently. They also keep account of the list of expected passengers and track those who do not show up or who disappear from the motor coach during stops to make sure they are not left behind. Additionally, a Charter Bus Driver performs basic automotive maintenance and sometimes acts as a tour guide.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Charter Bus Driver, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Charter Bus Driver, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) with passenger endorsement, strong driving skills, and a clean driving record. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, vehicle inspection protocols, and compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is essential. Excellent customer service, patience, and stress management are important soft skills for handling passenger needs and unexpected situations. These skills ensure passenger safety, punctuality, and a positive travel experience, which are crucial for success in this role.

Do you need a CDL to drive a charter bus?

Yes, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) is required to drive a charter bus. Specifically, a Class B CDL with passenger endorsement is typically necessary, along with any state-specific certifications or training. This ensures the driver meets safety standards and is qualified to operate large passenger vehicles.

What is the difference between Charter Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver?

AspectCharter Bus DriverSchool Bus Driver
Required CredentialsCommercial Driver's License (CDL) with passenger endorsementCDL with passenger endorsement, often a school bus endorsement
Work EnvironmentTraveling for private events, tours, or corporate tripsTransporting students to and from school and school-related activities
Employer & IndustryPrivate companies, tour operators, event organizersSchool districts, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonCharter Bus Driver vs School Bus Driver

Both roles require a CDL with passenger endorsement, but Charter Bus Drivers typically work in private or corporate settings, focusing on long-distance or special event transportation. School Bus Drivers primarily serve educational institutions, transporting students daily. While their certifications are similar, their work environments and employer types differ significantly.

Is driving a charter bus a good job?

Charter bus driving is a stable occupation that offers opportunities for travel and interaction with diverse groups. It requires a commercial driver's license (CDL), good driving skills, and adherence to safety regulations. The job often involves flexible hours and the potential for overtime, making it suitable for those seeking a career in transportation.

What is the highest paying bus driver?

The highest paying bus drivers are often those who operate charter or long-distance routes, with salaries exceeding $60,000 annually in some regions. Factors such as experience, certifications, and employer type can influence pay rates, and specialized skills like handling hazardous materials or operating large vehicles may also lead to higher earnings.

How much do RTC bus drivers make?

Charter bus drivers typically earn an average annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, routes, and hours worked. They often require commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) and may work irregular schedules, including weekends and holidays.

What does a charter bus driver do?

A charter bus driver is responsible for safely transporting groups of passengers to designated destinations, often for events, tours, or private outings. Their duties include driving a large passenger bus, assisting passengers with boarding and luggage, adhering to scheduled routes and timelines, and ensuring the comfort and safety of all riders. Charter bus drivers must also perform routine checks on the vehicle, comply with traffic laws, and provide excellent customer service throughout the trip.

What are the common challenges faced by charter bus drivers during long-distance trips?

Charter bus drivers often encounter challenges such as managing fatigue during extended hours, maintaining punctuality despite traffic or weather delays, and ensuring passenger safety and comfort throughout the journey. They must also adapt to varied schedules, unfamiliar routes, and occasionally handle difficult passenger situations. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential for coordinating with tour leaders, responding to passenger needs, and adhering to strict regulations and company policies.
More about Charter Bus Driver jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Charter Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Charter Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Charter Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA? For Charter Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Charter Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Charter Bus Driver jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Charter Bus Driver jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Charter Bus Driver job openings:
Charter Bus Driver jobs near you
Infographic showing various Charter Bus Driver job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% Full Time, and 74% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,276 per year, or $25.6 per hour.

City Bus Driver

Keolis America

CA

$22.67/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Pay: $22.67/hr

Why Drive For Us:

  • Health Insurance
  • Delta Dental Plan
  • VSP Vision Plan
  • Seven (7) paid holidays
  • Paid vacation after one year of service
  • Up to eight (8) paid PTO days
  • Up to (3) days bereavement leave
  • Teamsters sponsored Pension Plan
  • Company 401K Plan
  • Company paid $10K life insurance
  • Uniforms provided 

Knowledge and Experience:

Must have a valid driver’s license
Non CDL Holders (Class C): 

Must be able to obtain a CA CDL Class B with Passenger Endorsement & Air Brakes permit within 14 calendar days from start date 

Must be able to obtain CA CDL Class B with Passenger Endorsement & Air Brakes license by end of training (2 weeks after start date) you will have two chances to pass the test

CDL Holders (Class A or B):

Must maintain CDL Class A or B with Passenger Endorsement & Air Brakes.

Must be able to pass DOT Physical & Background

Customer Service Experience a plus
High degree of comfort working with people with disabilities.
Must be 21 years of age
Must be able to pass pre-employment drug test and DOT physical
Possess excellent communication (written and verbal) and decision-making skills
Must be able and willing to work a flexible schedule that may include nights, weekends and holidays
Other requirements may be required depending on location


Additional Statements 

Must be able and willing to work variable schedules that may include nights, weekends and holidays

Drug and alcohol screening: Employment contingent upon passing pre-employment drug and alcohol screen. Also, contingent upon receiving a favorable background check. If applying for a safety sensitive position, it may require a physical examination.

Safety commitment: Safety is a way of life at Keolis. By placing safety first, we ensure the wellbeing of our employees, customers, and communities. Together we can become the most successful transportation company in the world. 

Environmental commitment: Keolis is committed to protecting the environment by minimizing the impact of operations to our people and the communities in which we operate.

EEO statement: Our policy is to afford Equal Employment Opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of their race, color, sex, religion, age, creed, marital status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or gender identification. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

Disclaimer and closing statement: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees assigned to this job. Keolis is committed to offering our employees competitive compensation and benefits, opportunities for development and growth throughout an exciting and rewarding career, and the safest work environment possible.

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